Oolitic Aragonite Beads and Methods Therefor

ABSTRACT

Disclosed herein are personal care and/or cosmetic compositions, comprising a carrier and oolitic aragonite beads having an average diameter between 10 nm to 10 mm. Also disclosed herein are methods of reducing plastic contamination and/or pollution comprising making a cosmetic or personal care composition, wherein at least a portion to all (100%) of the plastic microbeads in the cosmetic or personal care composition are replaced with oolitic aragonite. Also disclosed herein are a milling system and milling methods for producing oolitic aragonite particles having a clean top size in which the particles are screened to remove any oversized particles. Additional uses include drug-loaded aragonite particles for therapeutic drug delivery and chromatography media.

This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/839,322 filed on Apr. 26, 2019; U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/902,314 filed on Sep. 18, 2019; U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/951,899 filed on Dec. 20, 2019; and U.S. ProvisionalApplication No. 62/964,500 filed on Jan. 22, 2020, the entire contentsof all of which are incorporated herein by reference.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The field of the invention is personal care and cosmetic compositionshaving oolitic aragonite beads, and pearl compositions made from theoolitic aragonite beads and milling methods and systems for making theoolitic aragonite beads.

BACKGROUND

The background description includes information that may be useful inunderstanding the present disclosure. It is not an admission that any ofthe information provided herein is prior art or relevant to thepresently claimed invention, or that any publication specifically orimplicitly referenced is prior art.

All publications and patent applications herein are incorporated byreference to the same extent as if each individual publication or patentapplication were specifically and individually indicated to beincorporated by reference. Where a definition or use of a term in anincorporated reference is inconsistent or contrary to the definition ofthat term provided herein, the definition of that term provided hereinapplies and the definition of that term in the reference does not apply.

US 2002/0012681 to George et al. reports cosmetic compositionscomprising fluorescent minerals. Aragonite is reported as a mineral withstrong brightness.

Small plastic beads with a diameter of typically less than 1 mm (<1mm)—also known as microbeads—are currently used in many ways, forexample, as cleansing or exfoliating agents in cosmetics, soaps, ortoothpaste. Microbeads used in personal care products typically migratethrough drains, and ultimately pollute oceans and lakes. A UnitedNations study found that a typical exfoliating shower gel contains asmuch microplastic by weight as the packaging in which the gel ispackaged. A single tube of toothpaste can contain 300,000 microplasticspheres. Problematically, plastic microbeads do not dissolve or degrade,such that they continue to pollute the environment long after they havebeen used.

According to a recent report, there over 10⁶ microplastic particles perkm² in Lake Erie, and up to 25,000 microplastic particles per km² inLake Huron. See also, NPR Morning Edition, “Why Those Tiny Microbeads InSoap May Pose Problem For Great Lakes,” May 21, 2014. “They are aboutthe same size as fish eggs, which means that, essentially, they looklike food. To any organism that lives in the water, they are food.” Seeid. Thus, the concern is that these plastic microbeads are making theirway into the food web.

Moreover, microbeads bind and concentrate various environmental toxins.When ingested by fish and crustaceans these toxins enter the food chainat high quantities, which further enrich upwards toward humans at thetop of the food chain. Additionally, microplastics per se harm a dynamicecosystem. The primary concern for human health, however, is moreurgently the toxins and carcinogens used to make these microplastics.

Furthermore, calcium carbonate is one of the most abundant materialsfound in the earth's crust and it forms rock types of limestone andchalk. Calcium carbonate is also the most abundant chemical sediment inmodern and most ancient oceans, making up roughly 10% of the oceansediments. (M. M. H. Al Omari et al., Chapter Two, Calcium Carbonate,page 34, Profiles of Drug Substances, Excipients, and RelatedMethodology, Vol. 41, 2016 Elsevier Inc. ISSN 1871-5125.)

Currently, calcium carbonate utilized in the marketplace is processed asor from ground calcium carbonate (GCC), precipitated calcium carbonate(PCC) (synthesized), and/or limestone production. The product producedis a commodity grade with different attributes. To get a clean particlesized distribution (PSD) top size and low retain, most companies utilizea wet grinding process by either high solids or low solids. However, theproduct and these processes are neither biogenic nor environmentallyfavorable.

Thus, there remains a need for new personal care and cosmeticcompositions that replace the plastic beads with alternative products,while still providing the scrubbing properties of plastic microbeads.Moreover, such alternative products should be biodegradable, and safe tohumans and the environment.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure sets forth systems and methods for producingground aragonite particles having low variation in the particle sizedistribution (PSD). In particular, the ground aragonite particles aremade following a rigorous yet cost effective and environmentallyfavorable method rendering a clean top size in which the particles arescreened to remove any oversized particles.

Compositions made following the disclosed methods and/or using thedisclosed system include ground aragonite particles having a size ofbetween 2.0 to 3.5 microns in which 0.005% of the particles are retainedon 325 mesh.

More specifically, the inventive subject matter includes a method forproducing ground aragonite particles including drying aragoniteparticles having an average size of 750 um to 1 mm, milling the driedaragonite particles in a ball mill, wherein the ball mill includes metalgrinding media, a grinding aid, and a grate discharge. The methodincludes separating the ground aragonite particles in an air classifierthat separates the ground aragonite particles having a selected particlesize distribution, wherein the temperature of the aragonite particlesprocessed is maintained below 200° C.

In specific embodiments, the method includes milling using a ball millat 70 to 80% of the optimum speed, wherein the optimum speed is thespeed at which centrifugal force at the top of the mill equals the forceof gravity. Preferably the grinding aid used in the ball mill isHEA-2/MTDA 632.

In additional embodiments, the method for producing ground aragoniteparticles also includes surface treating the ground aragonite particleshaving the selected particle size distribution. For example, forrendering aragonite particles having a hydrophobic surface, the surfacetreatment is preferably steric acid.

Notably, the inventive subject matter also includes a closed circuitsystem for producing the ground aragonite particles. The closed circuitsystem includes a feed hopper, a fluid bed dryer, a ball mill, and anair classifier fluidly coupled to each other for form a continuous pathfor a feed of aragonite moving from the feed hopper through to the airclassifier. More specifically, the feed hopper is a grizzly feed hopperincluding grizzly bars. The ball mill includes metal grinding media, agrate discharge, and a ceramic lining. The air classifier separatesground aragonite particles of the selected size for output and directsoversized aragonite particles to the ball mill.

In additional embodiments, the closed circuit system as disclosed aboveand herein, also includes an electromagnet that is fluidly coupledbetween the feed hopper and the fluid bed dryer. Additionally, theclosed circuit system may also include a screen stack fluidly coupledbetween the fluid bed dryer and the ball mill.

For applying a surface treatment, the closed circuit system as disclosedabove and herein, may also include a heat jacked mixer fluidly coupledto the air classifier capable of receiving the ground aragoniteparticles of the selected size.

The aragonite particles described herein can be used in drug delivery.In some embodiments, the composition of aragonite particles made by thecontemplated methods are loaded with a molecule (e.g., a drug molecule).The aragonite particle may be surface treated prior to loading with themolecule. Examples of molecules include small molecules such achemotherapeutics as well as large molecules including proteins such asantibodies. The surface treated aragonite particles may be furtherfunctionalized to bind a small molecule or protein.

Additionally, the aragonite particles described herein may be used as anadsorbent chromatography media. The aragonite particles may behydrophilic or hydrophobic. Accordingly, the aragonite particles may besurface treated as disclosed herein to produce the desired charge. Thearagonite particles may also be further functionalized with a bindingmoiety to produce chromatography media capable of binding and isolatingmore specific targets.

The present disclosure also sets forth various compositions of, methodsfor, and use of oolitic aragonite in personal care and cosmeticcompositions for various uses. Therefore, personal care and/or cosmeticcompositions are disclosed herein, comprising a carrier and ooliticaragonite beads having an average particle size between 100 nm to 1 mm.In some embodiments, the carrier may be a water-soluble alginatehydrogel, resulting in a composition that is mostly or completelyocean-derived. The alginate hydrogel and the oolitic aragonite may forma dispersion solution. The pH of the composition is generally more than7.0, as oolitic aragonite has a slightly alkaline pH of 8.2 to 8.4. Thepersonal care composition may be formulated as exfoliating scrubs, bathlotions, soap bars, shampoos, conditioners, toothpastes, or lotions.Alternatively, the cosmetic composition may also be formulated asfoundation, lipstick, mascara, face serums, eyeshadow, highlighter, orcontour cosmetics.

In some embodiments, the oolitic aragonite is coupled to a protein,which may provide an added beneficial effect. The composition mayfurther comprise one or more cosmetically acceptable surfactants, suchas an anionic surfactant, a nonionic surfactant, an amphotericsurfactant, a zwitterionic surfactant, and combinations thereof. Thecarrier in the composition may comprise a cosmetically acceptableingredient selected from the group consisting of a solvent, anemulsifier, a surfactant, a structuring agent, a thickener or gellingagent, a skin conditioning agent, a filler, a fiber, a sunscreen agent,a preservative, a chelator, an antioxidant, a neutralizing orpH-adjusting agent, a cosmetically active agent or dermatologicallyactive agent, a flavonoid, a colorant, an aesthetic agent, a foamenhancer, a botanical extract, an anti-inflammatory agent, a protein(e.g., a serum protein or an enzyme), and mixtures thereof.

The instant disclosure also provides a non-therapeutic, cosmetic methodfor cleansing and/or brightening the skin and/or producing visual skinhomogeneity, comprising topically applying the composition disclosedabove.

The average size of the oolitic aragonite for use in the presentlydisclosed compositions and methods depends on the particular use, andgenerally it is between 100 nm and 1 mm in diameter. Alternatively oradditionally, at least half of the oolitic aragonite particles have asize between 100 nm and 1 mm in diameter.

Also disclosed herein is a method of reducing plastic contaminationand/or pollution comprising: making a cosmetic or personal carecomposition, wherein at least a portion of the plastic microbeads thatmight otherwise have been used in the cosmetic or personal carecomposition are replaced with oolitic aragonite. In one embodiment, theoolitic aragonite has a size distribution sufficient to give anexfoliating character. Preferably, the oolitic aragonite has an averageparticle size between 100 μm and 3 mm in diameter, or at least 50% ofthe oolitic aragonite have a particle size between 100 μm and 3 mm indiameter. In another embodiment, the oolitic aragonite particles have asize distribution sufficient to give an iridescence in a cosmeticcomposition. Preferably, to provide an iridescence, the ooliticaragonite has an average particle size between 10 nm to 1 μm indiameter, and/or at least 50% of the oolitic aragonite has an averageparticle size between 10 nm to 1 μm in diameter. In another embodiment,the oolitic aragonite has a size distribution sufficient to be a fillerin a cosmetic. When used as a filler, the oolitic aragonite has anaverage particle size between 10 μm and 100 μm in diameter, and/or atleast 50% of the oolitic aragonite has an average particle size between10 μm and 100 μm in diameter.

In some embodiments, the pH of the personal care product is more than7.0. In some embodiments, oolitic aragonite beads are coupled toprotein. Preferably, the personal care product is toothpaste, anexfoliating product, a soap bar, or a shampoo. When the personal careproduct is a toothpaste, it may further comprise a sweetener, such assorbitol or saccharin to provide a pleasant taste. When the personalcare product is a cleanser, it may further comprise a surfactant, suchas an anionic surfactant, nonionic surfactant, amphoteric surfactant,zwitterionic surfactant, and combinations thereof. In some embodiments,the composition further comprises a cosmetically acceptable ingredientselected from the group consisting of solvents, emulsifiers,surfactants, structuring agents, thickeners or gelling agents, skinconditioning agents, fillers, fibers, sunscreen agents, preservatives,chelators, antioxidants, neutralizing or pH-adjusting agents,cosmetically active agents or dermatologically active agents,flavonoids, colorants, aesthetic agents, foam enhancers, botanicalextracts, anti-inflammatory agents, vitamins, and mixtures thereof.

Also disclosed herein is a cosmetic composition having a soft focuseffect with radiance, comprising: a light reflecting medium comprisingoolitic aragonite having average particle size of about 1 nm to 100 um;and a cosmetically acceptable carrier system. In one embodiment, theoolitic aragonite amounts to 0.1% (w/w) to 30% (w/w) of the composition.In one embodiment, the composition may be aqueous based, comprising fromabout 30% (w/w) to about 90% (w/w) water of the composition. The ooliticaragonite may be platelet shaped, spherical shaped, or oval shaped. Inone embodiment, the oolitic aragonite may be coated with anothersubstance. Preferably, the oolitic aragonite particles are coated withtitanium dioxide and/or mica.

The instant disclosure also discloses a method for making a syntheticpearl composition where the method includes providing the presentlydisclosed aragonite microbeads to a pressure device and applyingpressure to the aragonite microbeads in the pressure device. Appliedpressure may be of between 4,000 to 10,000 pounds per square inch (psi).The applied pressure may be from one or multiple directions. Forexample, the applied pressure may be a balanced pressure. The pressuredevice may a roller device having at least two rollers in between whichthe aragonite microbeads are provided. Additionally, or alternatively,the pressure device includes a mold for containing the aragonitemicrobeads wherein the mold is capable of receiving the appliedpressure. A synthetic pearl composition may be obtained following thepresently disclosed methods.

Various objects, features, aspects and advantages of the subject matterdisclosed herein will become more apparent from the following figuresand detailed description of preferred embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWING

FIG. 1 is a table of exemplary results for chemical analysis ofaragonite.

FIG. 2 is an exemplary schematic of a closed circuit ball mill system.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

As known to a skilled artisan, plastic microbeads are widely used incosmetics as exfoliating (or structuring or massaging) agents and asmild abrasive or polishing agent in personal care products such astoothpaste. Oolitic aragonite can be used in a variety of manners toreplace plastic beads in personal care products. Oolitic aragonite canalso be used to impart a specific visual character, and especiallyiridescent appearance. Moreover, oolitic aragonite will not act as anirritant to skin, oral mucosa, etc., even upon prolonged exposure. Stillfurther, due to generally hydrophilic character, oolitic aragonite willnot adsorb or otherwise bind various hydrophobic environmental toxins.In contrast, oolitic aragonite could even be associated with variousdesirable hydrophilic agents due to the porosity of the ooliticaragonite.

As used herein, “microbeads” are manufactured particles of ≥5 mm intheir largest dimension (see C. Copeland: Microbeads: An Emerging WaterQuality Issue, fas.org, Jul. 20, 2015). As used herein, “plastic”conveys polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate,polymethyl methacrylate, polytetrafluoroethylene, and nylon polymermaterials. Plastic microbeads are commercially available in particlesizes from 10 micrometers to 5 millimeter. However, such plasticmicrobeads cause pollution in the water, and ultimately may enter thefood chain. Advantageously, oolitic aragonite may be used in place ofplastic beads. In most cases, oolitic aragonite beads are naturallybiodegradable. The biodegradable oolitic aragonite microbeads disclosedherein are stable in typical formulations commonly used in cosmetics andpersonal care products, but will degrade in time when exposed to anambient environment outside the formulation.

The oolitic aragonite of the present disclosure can be obtained from anybiogenic aragonite source including mollusk shells and calcareousendoskeleton of warm- and cold-water corals, or as inorganicprecipitates as marine cements. Where oolitic aragonite is obtained fromorganic sources, organic molecules (e.g., proteins, lipids, etc.) in thearagonite (calcium carbonate minerals) can be removed by any suitableprocedures (e.g., protease treatment, etc.) before using in the instantcompositions.

Oolitic aragonite is one of the purest forms of naturally precipitatedcalcium carbonate. It has a crystalline morphology of orthorhombic,bipyramidal, characteristically needle-shaped crystals. Ooliticaragonite can be processed to recrystallize and/or reform in variousshapes, such that it can be used for various purposes that takeadvantage of the mechanical and chemical properties of the calciumcarbonate minerals. The table in FIG. 1 provides exemplary results forchemical analysis of aragonite. Oolitic aragonite particles as disclosedherein are solid matter having a regular (e.g., spherical, or ovoid) orirregular shape. Thus, in one preferred embodiment herein, the ooliticaragonite may have a spherical, cubic, cone, cuboid, or prism shape whenit is used as an exfoliator in a personal care composition, while theoolitic aragonite may have a platelet shape when it is used in acosmetic composition for radiance.

Natural aragonite, for example oolitic aragonite, may be prepared to adesired shape and size, depending on the particular use of thearagonite. In one embodiment, the aragonite is dried and screened to avariety of gradations. In one embodiment, the aragonite particles arecut to approximate desired particle sizes by crushing the aragonite witha steel mortar and a pestle, and/or milling (e.g., jet milling,attrition milling, ball milling, etc.). Additionally or alternatively,the crushed or milled particles can be shaped into a spherical orplatelet shape by passing the reduced particles through a platelet- orsphere-making machine normally used in the stone and rock industry.

Oolitic aragonite's adsorption capacity is a function of threeparameters: (1) surface charge (also known as “ζ (zeta) potential”); (2)surface area/void ratio; and (3) particle solubility. By accuratelymeasuring these three parameters, one can determine what materials willadsorb to aragonite particle surfaces under given conditions.

A positive charge on a particle surface will bind anions, while anegative surface charge binds cations. Aragonite ζ potential is afunction of pH. Specifically, aragonite typically adsorbs cations atpH>8, but adsorb anions at pH<8. The ζ potential of aragonite affectsthe stability of colloidal dispersions containing aragonite. The ζpotential indicates the degree of repulsion among adjacent, similarlycharged particles in a dispersion. Dispersions with high potentials willresist aggregation. When ζ potential is low, flocculates form becauseattraction exceeds repulsion. Oolitic aragonite has a ζ potentialgreater than 25 mV in most circumstances, and therefore ooliticaragonite dispersions typically resist coagulation or flocculation. As aresult, aragonite can resist breaking and flocculation when combinedwith many other chemicals.

Berlin and Khabakov (1961) report that biogenic CaCO₃ typically has anegative ζ potential, while mineral-origin CaCO₃ typically has a verylow to positive ζ potential. Particle solubility and ζ potential controlwhat adsorbs to the aragonite surface, while surface area/void ratiocontrol the adsorptive capacity. Particles with larger surface areas canadsorb more material to their surface. For example, aragonite needs apositive ζ potential to bind nitrate (NO₃ ⁻). Therefore, where aragoniteis to be included in a filter to remove nitrate, the filtered media's pHshould be kept low to achieve the necessary ζ potential.

Oolitic aragonite also has a naturally high number of measurable poresin particles with diameters less than 2 nm (i.e., a high“microporosity”). Highly microporous materials are useful inapplications such as catalysis, separation, absorption, and as deliveryvehicles for chemicals.

The diameter of the aragonite microbeads depends on the final use of theparticles. For example, if the oolitic aragonite is to be used forexfoliation purpose, the particle size is between 1 μm and 10 mm, ormore preferably between 500 μm and 5 mm, and most preferably between 100μm and 3 mm in diameter. Alternatively, at least 30%, at least 50%, atleast 70%, or at least 90% of the oolitic aragonite particles have anaverage size between 1 μm and 10 mm in diameter, or more preferablybetween 10 μm and 5 mm in diameter, and most preferably between 100 μmand 3 mm in diameter. On the other hand, if the oolitic aragonite isused in a cosmetic makeup application, for example to provideiridescence to the skin, or to provide a soft focus effect withradiance, the particle size of the oolitic aragonite would be smaller,for example between 1 nm to 100 μm, or more preferably between 10 nm to1 μm, and most preferably between 100 nm to 500 nm. Aragonite microbeadsin these smaller ranges (e.g., from 1 nm to 100 μm) may be referred toas aragonite powder. Alternatively, at least 30%, at least 50%, at least70%, or at least 90% of the oolitic aragonite particles have an averagesize between 1 nm to 100 μm in diameter, or more preferably between 10nm to 1 μm in diameter, and most preferably between 100 nm to 500 nm indiameter. Thus, as disclosed throughout this disclosure, the size andshape of the oolitic aragonite depends on its final use.

Indeed, it should be appreciated that the aragonite may be physicallyand/or chemically modified to so enhance or mitigate certain features ofthe aragonite. For example, in some embodiments the aragonite will bedried to reduce the moisture content at least some degree. Among otherdrying parameters, it is contemplated that the aragonite is dried to amoisture content of equal or less than 5.0%, or equal or less than 2.5%,or equal or less than 1.0%, or equal or less than 0.8%, or equal or lessthan 0.6%, or equal or less than 0.4%, or equal or less than 0.2%moisture content. Moreover, it should be recognized that the aragonitematerials may be subject to specific selection/separation of particlesizes to accommodate to particular purposes. For example, the aragonitemay be milled or otherwise comminuted to obtain a desired size range. Inone embodiment, comminution will be performed using a ceramic lined ballmill and steel balls to grind the oolitic aragonite into a fine productof various micron sizes (e.g., 2-8 micron, 12-18 micron, 20-40 micron),which is deemed to be especially suitable for cosmetics and otherpersonal care products.

As will be readily appreciated, the comminuted material can be separatedto different gradations for specific purposes. For example, where thecomminuted aragonite is used for microbeads for facial and body scrubs,the aragonite can be dried and screened aragonite using specific meshranges.

For example, a mesh with 80 openings per square inch of screen isdenoted as an 80 mesh screen. A “+” before the mesh size indicates theparticles are retained by the sieve. A “−” before the mesh sizeindicates the particles pass through the screen). The coarsest materialsent contains all particles that can pass a 30 mesh screen and beretained on a 40 mesh screen. The particle size range for this materialis 420 μm to 590 μm. A −40 to +60 mesh screening contains all particlespassing a 40 mesh screen and retained on a 60 mesh screen. The particlesize range for this material is 250 μm to 420 μm. A −60 to +80 meshscreening contains all particles passing a 60 mesh screen and retainedon an 80 mesh screen. The particle size range for this material is 180μm to 250 μm. A −60 mesh screening contains all gradations passing a 60mesh screen. All this material is less than 250 μm in size. A −80 meshscreening collects the finest of the material and includes allgradations passing an 80 mesh screen. All material from this screen isless than 150 μm in size.

Advantageously, ball milling of aragonite produces an aragoniteparticle/powder having an improved (less varied) size distribution thanconventional ground calcium carbonate (GCC). For example, with referenceto FIG. 2, ball milled aragonite using the system and methods disclosedherein, can produce an aragonite particle of 2.5 to 3.5 micron size witha clean top size. A clean top size means that very few particles arelarger than the 3.5 micron size when produced using this system andmethod with a classifier set at 2.5 to 3.5 micron size range. Forexample, for aragonite produced in this set range using the disclosedsystem, only <0.0005% are retained on a 325 mesh and only slightly more<0.0007% are retained on a 500 mesh, as compared to a GCC product havingthe same median (D50) particle size distribution (PSD). Accordingly,aragonite produced using the contemplated system and methods have acleaner top size than conventional GCC.

With continued reference to FIG. 2, an exemplary method using a ballmilling system in general includes: 1) characterized or characterizingaragonite (e.g., obtained from ocean reefs); 2) providing the aragoniteto a feed hopper to set; 3) exposing the aragonite to an electromagnetto prevent and/or remove any metal contamination; 4) processing thearagonite in a fluid bed dryer; 5) screening the aragonite through ascreen stack; 6) grinding the aragonite in a ball mill; 7) passing thearagonite exiting the ball mill through an air classifier to size thearagonite particles and direct the oversized particles back through theball mill and direct particles of desired size to be processed through aheat jacketed mixer.

More specifically, the starting aragonite obtained from natural sourcesmay be initially characterized using sieve analysis. In addition tovarious sized particles, the starting aragonite (as sourced) hasapproximately 2-3% by weight amino acids. Typically, the startingaragonite has a median (D50) micron size between 700-800 um (e.g., 750um). Using the disclosed closed circuit ball milling system and method,the 700-800 um starting aragonite is processed to a 2.5 to 3.5 micronaragonite product with a cleaner top size compared to GCC.

Providing the starting aragonite to a feed hopper the feed rate of thearagonite material within the system can be controlled. Preferably agrizzly feed hopper is used having a grizzly section (i.e., grizzlybars) with openings that allow undersized material to pass beforedischarging into a crusher or grinder. Additionally, a grizzly feedhopper vibrates in order to force the material toward the discharge endwhile segregating the material.

In an exemplary embodiment, with reference to FIG. 2, from the feedhopper (2) the aragonite is moved out of the hopper at a flow ratesuitable for the desired particle size. For example, for particlesbetween 2.5 to 3.5 microns, a suitable flow rate is of between 6,500 to7,000 pounds/hour (lbs/hr).

With continued reference to FIG. 2, if it is desired to prevent or inthe least decrease metal contamination of the aragonite, the aragonitemay be fed out of the feed hopper to an electromagnet (3). If theelectromagnet is used, after exposure to the electromagnet, thearagonite is provided to a fluid bed dryer (4) to reduce the moisturecontent of the aragonite. Surprisingly, while the moisture content isdecreased by drying at a temperature between 200-300° Fahrenheit (F),the contemplated method ensures the aragonite is processed attemperatures below 200° Celsius (C). It is noted that at temperaturesabove 200° C., the inherent 2-3% amino acid content in the aragonitedegrades, rendering the aragonite more hydrophilic, thereby increasingthe moisture content of the aragonite by 10,000 to 30,000 ppm. Withoutwishing to be bound by any theory, the temperatures for the steps of thecontemplated method are less than 200° C. Typically, the temperature ofthe fluid drying bed is of between 200-300° F., and preferably, thetemperature is 260° F.

The contemplated ball milling system feeds the aragonite from the fluidbed dryer (4) to a screen stack (5) (FIG. 2). In some embodiments, thescreen stack includes a set of graded sieve meshes. For example, for anaragonite particle having a PSD of 2.5 to 3.5 microns, the set ofstacked screens may include: 1) 1 inch; and 2) 4 mesh. In someembodiments, the stacked screens may include 1) 1 inch; 2) 4 mesh; and3) 24 mesh. In still other embodiments, the stacked screens mayinclude 1) 1 inch; 2) 4 mesh; 3) 24 mesh; and 4) 80 mesh.

From the output of the stacked screens, the screened aragonite isdirected into a mill to be ground. The aragonite is fed into the mill ata rate equal to the production output of the milling circuit. The millmay be a vertical mill or a horizontal ball mill (6) as depicted in FIG.2. Preferably the mill is a closed circuit ball milling system. Asdepicted, a closed circuit system includes a classifier that isolatesproducts larger than the set size and returns the oversized product tothe ball mill to be mixed with “new” aragonite material and reground.The aragonite material fed into the ball mill mixes with the classifierrejects and is ground inside the ball mill with metal grinding media.Exemplary metal grinding media include carbon steel, forged steel,stainless steel, or chrome steel grinding balls. More specifically, thesize of the metal grinding balls is selected depending on the desiredparticle size. For example, for aragonite particles having a PSD of 2.5to 3.5 microns, ⅜ inch metal grinding balls may be used. Preferably, thevolume of grinding balls should be between 40-45% of the inside shellvolume of the mill. With the addition of the aragonite material, thevolume is preferably at about 50-60%

As understood in the art, for ball milling, the optimum speed is thespeed at which the centrifugal force at the top of the mill is justbalanced by the force of gravity, thereby causing the balls to be liftedto the maximum height before they fall onto the balls/material below andimparting the most kinetic energy. In practice, the ball mill istypically run just below the optimum speed—e.g., 70-80% of the optimumspeed. More typically, the ball mill is run at 75% of the optimumspeed—corresponding to approximately 30 rotations per minute (rpm).

The contemplated method using dry mill processing, may also includeadding a grinding aid. In preferred embodiments, the grinding aidHEA-2/MTDA 632 is added. More preferably, the grinding aid is added at arate of 12 to 15 cc/minute. Most preferably, the grinding aid is addedat rate of 12 to 15 cc/minute and at 30 to 100 ppms.

With respect to the ball mill device or any type of dry mill device, thespecific dimensions and overall size of the mill will depend on thevolume of aragonite to be processed as well as the desired particlesize. For example, the ball mill disclosed in FIG. 2 has a diameter of 4feet (4′) and a length of 12 feet (12′). Additionally, in preferredembodiments, the inside of the mill has a ceramic lining. Mostpreferably, the ball mill is a grate discharge ball mill which allowsfor a steep particle size distribution in a closed circuit mill having aclassifier with the rejects being recycled. Preferably, with gratedischarge design, the volume of the grinding media and the aragonitematerial is higher at the feed end of the mill (e.g., between 55-60%)and decreases to 50-55% at the discharge end of the mill. Accordingly,the grate discharge configuration allows for the grinding energy of theball mill to be concentrated on the coarse particles, thereby lending toa “clean top” particle distribution.

Surprisingly, processing aragonite particles using a ball mill asdisclosed herein, utilizes less energy (e.g., horsepower (hp); hp/ton)than the production of ground calcium carbonite (GCC) using conventionalwet ground methods. For example, for making a 2 to 3 micron particle,the ball mill system as described herein and depicted in FIG. 2 uses125-175 hp/ton.

As disclosed, the contemplated ball mill system recycles any oversizedparticles coming out of the ball mill grinder in order to keep theparticle size distribution (PSD) close to the upper set size withoutmuch variation, resulting in a “clean top” PSD. The classifier receivingthe aragonite from the ball mill may be any suitable classifier. Forexample, as depicted in FIG. 2, an air classifier (7) is used (e.g.,MS-10 or MS-5 air classifier) with an original equipment manufacturer(OEM) micro sizer and a fines recovery of 12-20%. Preferably the airclassifier separates the fine and coarse material by a rotatingclassifier and air flow. For example, for a 2.5 to 3.5 micron product,the classifier rotates at 1600 to 1800 rpms with a fan set atapproximately 3,800 rpms.

For aragonite particles that are not surface treated, the aragonite thatpasses from the classifier having the set particle size is ready forpackaging.

In some embodiments, the aragonite produced from the ball mill may besurface treated. Accordingly, after the aragonite passes through theclassifier with the set particle size, it is then directed from theclassifier (7) to a heat jacked mixer (8). Aragonite having 2-3% aminoacid content has a hydrophilic surface. However, for example, if ahydrophobic surface is desired, the aragonite particle may be treatedwith steric acid. The heat jacked mixer provides the application of thesteric acid (e.g., palm based steric acid at 1.6-1.9%) and a temperatureof 270-290° F. The heated application of the steric acid ensures theparticle has a monolayer of steric acid coating.

Alternatively, the application of steric acid to the aragonite may beapplied in a pen mill with liquid steric acid.

As will be further appreciated, the comminuted aragonite materials maybe further subjected to chemical and/or physical modifications,including coatings and/or heat setting. For example, coatings may impartcolor, desirable compounds such as amino acids, proteins, waxes etc., oradd bacteria. Physical modifications include heat setting and/orionizing to impart or remove a specific Zeta charge on the material,which will significantly impact various material properties of themodified aragonite.

The carrier disclosed in the instant composition comprises an aqueoussolution. In some embodiments, the composition may comprise from about40% to about 99%, preferably from about 50% to about 98%, and morepreferably from about 80% to about 95% by weight of water, relative tothe total weight of the composition.

Alginate Carrier

In some embodiments, aragonite is encapsulated in a carrier. In typicalembodiments, the carrier may comprise a water-soluble alginate hydrogel.Alginate may also be referred to as alginic acid or alginate. Alginateis a biomaterial made from algae or seaweed. Structurally, alginate isan anionic polysaccharide formed by linear block copolymerization ofd-mannuronic acid and 1-guluronic acid. As such, alginates are linearunbranched polysaccharides which contain different amounts of(1→4′)-linked β-d-mannuronic acid and α-1-guluronic acid residues.Alginate has numerous applications in biomedical science and engineeringbecause of its favorable properties, including biocompatibility and easeof gelation. Alginate is typically used in hydrogel form. Hydrogels arethree-dimensionally cross-linked networks composed of hydrophilicpolymers with high water content. Chemical and/or physical cross-linkingof hydrophilic polymers are typical approaches to form hydrogels.Various approaches may be used to cross-link alginate chains to preparegels, such as ionic cross-linking, covalent cross-linking, or thermalgelation. See Lee, Kuen Yong and David J Mooney. “Alginate: propertiesand biomedical applications” Progress in polymer science vol. 37, 1(2012): 106-126.

The alginate hydrogel's physicochemical properties depend on thealginate's molecular weight, in addition to the cross-linking type andcross-linking density. Thus the skilled artisan can adjust thealginate's molecular weight, depending on the composition's intendeduse, to achieve desired gel solution viscosity and post-gellingstiffness. In one embodiment, the molecular weight ranges between 32,000and 400,000 g/mol. In one embodiment, the compositions disclosed hereincomprise oolitic aragonite beads and a water soluble alginate hydrogel—acompletely ocean derived personal care product or cosmetic product.

Applications and Uses

The aragonite particles processed according to the methods disclosedherein-using for example, the contemplated ball mill system—may beutilized in a vast array of applications including cleansers andcosmetics, drug delivery nanoparticles, and chromatography media, asmore specifically described herein.

Chromatography (e.g., ion exchange chromatography) requires relativelycostly chromatography media (e.g., adsorptive beads) for the separationand purification of biological samples (e.g., proteins, antibodies).Accordingly, aragonite from abundant biogenic sources including molluskshells and corals may be processed using the ball mill system andmethods as disclosed herein and used as chromatography adsorbent media.In particular, the aragonite particles may be used as hydrophilic orhydrophobic chromatography media for use in gravity isolation methods aswell as column chromatography. As described herein, aragonite inherentlyhas a hydrophilic surface and may be surface treated to render ahydrophobic surface. Furthermore, aragonite particles having either ahydrophilic or hydrophobic surface may be further functionalized withcorresponding binding molecules or binding moiety for more specificbinding of target molecules.

In other contemplated applications, the aragonite particles made by themethods and systems disclosed herein, may be used as carriers fortherapeutic drugs. For example, chemotherapeutics (e.g., smallmolecules) may be loaded onto aragonite particles, wherein release ofthe small molecules is pH dependent. See, e.g., Kamba et al. (2013) J.Nanomaterials 2013:398357 and Kamba et al. (2013) Biomed Res. Intl.2013:587451. Accordingly, the aragonite particles produced by thepresently disclosed method and system including the application of asurface treatment, provide an aragonite particle capable of effectivelydelivering a drug therapy, including targeted cancer therapy.

In some aspects of the invention, the presently disclosed aragoniteparticles may be processed as disclosed herein and surface treated(e.g., with steric acid) in order to produce an effective nanoparticlefor loading small molecule chemotherapeutics. In addition, surfacetreated aragonite particles as disclosed herein may be furtherfunctionalized for loading of larger molecule biologics, includingproteins and antibodies.

Oolitic aragonite naturally has an alkaline pH (around 8.2 to 8.4),which makes it an effective cleanser to clean the acid mantle on thesurface of the skin. Because the acid mantle is acidic, the mosteffective ways to clean the skin, along with excess oils, dirt andgerms, all use alkaline compositions.

In one embodiment, the oolitic aragonite composition disclosed hereinmay be useful in a cleansing composition, such as a bath or shower gel,a face cleanser, shampoo, soap bar, toothpaste, or a dishwashing liquid.In these embodiments, the composition further comprises a surfactant,and preferably a cosmetically acceptable surfactant. The surfactant maybe chosen from anionic surfactants, nonionic surfactants, amphotericsurfactants, zwitterionic surfactants, and mixtures thereof. Such acleansing composition is a rinse off product, such that the compositionis applied and then rinsed off.

Anionic surfactants as disclosed herein include surfactants comprisinganionic groups. These anionic groups are preferably chosen from —CO₂H,—CO₂ ⁻, —SO₃H, —SO₃ ⁻, —OSO₃H, —OSO₃ ⁻, —H₂PO₃, —HPO₃ ⁻, —PO₃ ²⁻,—H₂PO₂, ═HPO₂, —HPO₂ ⁻, ═PO₂ ⁻, ═POH, and ═PO⁻ groups. The anionicsurfactant may be made of alkyl sulfates, alkyl ether sulfates,alkylamido ether sulfates, alkylaryl polyether sulfates, monoglyceridesulfates, alkylsulfonates, alkylamidesulfonates, alkylarylsulfonates,α-olefin sulfonates, paraffin sulfonates, alkyl sulfosuccinates, alkylether sulfosuccinates, alkylamide sulfosuccinates, alkyl sulfoacetates,acylsarcosinates, acylglutamates, alkyl sulfosuccinamates,acylisethionates and N-acyltaurates, polyglycoside polycarboxylic acidand alkyl monoester salts, acyl lactylates, salts of D-galactosideuronic acids, salts of alkyl ether carboxylic acids, salts of alkylarylether carboxylic acids, salts of alkylamido ether carboxylic acids, andthe corresponding non-saltified forms of all these compounds, the alkyland acyl groups of all these compounds comprising from 6 to 24 carbonatoms and the aryl group denoting a phenyl group. Another group ofanionic surfactants that may be used is that of acyl lactylates, theacyl group of which comprises from 8 to 20 carbon atoms. The anionicsurfactant may also be made of alkyl-D-galactoside-uronic acids andtheir salts, and also of polyoxyalkylenated (C₆₋₂₄) alkyl ethercarboxylic acids, polyoxyalkylenated (C₆₋₂₄) alkyl (C₆₋₂₄) aryl ethercarboxylic acids, polyoxyalkylenated (C₆₋₂₄) alkylamido ether carboxylicacids and salts thereof, especially those containing from 2 to 50ethylene oxide units, and mixtures thereof. When the anionicsurfactant(s) are in salt form, they may be chosen from alkali metalsalts such as the sodium or potassium salt, ammonium salts, amine salts,and in particular amino alcohol salts or alkaline-earth metal salts suchas the magnesium salts. Examples of amino alcohol salts that mayespecially be mentioned include monoethanolamine, diethanolamine, andtriethanolamine salts, monoisopropanolamine, diisopropanolamine, ortriisopropanolamine salts, 2-amino-2-methyl-1-propanol salts,2-amino-2-methyl-1, 3-propanediol salts, and tris (hydroxymethyl)aminomethane salts. Alkali metal or alkaline-earth metal salts, and inparticular sodium or magnesium salts, are preferably used.

Nonionic surfactants as disclosed herein include surfactants such asoxyalkylenated (more particularly polyoxyethylenated) esters of fattyacids and of glycerol, oxyalkylenated esters of fatty acids and ofsorbitan, oxyalkylenated (oxyethylenated and/or oxypropylenated) estersof fatty acids (e.g., ARLACEL 165), oxyalkylenated (oxyethylenatedand/or oxypropylenated) ethers of fatty alcohols, esters of sugars, suchas sucrose stearate, ethanolamine and its derivatives, such as cocamideMEA, or ethers of fatty alcohol and of sugar, in particular alkylpolyglucosides (APGs), such as decyl glucoside and lauryl glucoside,cetostearyl glucoside, optionally as a mixture with cetostearyl alcohol,and arachidyl glucoside, for example in the form of the mixture ofarachidyl alcohol, behenyl alcohol and arachidyl glucoside.

Amphoteric or zwitterionic surfactants as disclosed herein includederivatives of optionally quaternized aliphatic secondary or tertiaryamines, where the aliphatic group is a linear or branched chaincomprising from 8 to 22 carbon atoms, the amine derivatives contain atleast one anionic group, for instance a carboxylate, sulfonate, sulfate,phosphate or phosphonate group. Examples of amphoteric or zwitterionicsurfactants include (C₈₋₂₀) alkylbetaines, sulfobetaines, (C₈₋₂₀)alkylamido (C₃₋₈) alkylbetaines and (C₈₋₂₀) alkylamido (C₆₋₈)alkylsulfobetaines. It should also be appreciated the aragonitematerials according to the inventive subject matter can be modified tochange or remove the zeta potential of the aragonite, which willsignificantly affect the physicochemical properties of the aragonite(e.g., enhance or reduce binding of cationic or anionic materials,enhance or reduce particle repulsion, etc.).

The compositions disclosed herein may further comprise a protein in anamount about 0.001% (w/w) to about 1% (w/w) of the total weight of thecomposition. A variety of proteins may be used that offer a beneficialeffect or nourishment to hair or skin. For example, milk protein caseinmay be used for its moisturizing effect. Collagen and elastin may beused in the composition disclosed herein to improve the skin'selasticity and to reduce or eliminate wrinkles. Keratin may be used inthe composition, especially if it is used in the hair, to improve hairquality and texture. Albumin may be used in the composition to soothethe skin and promote healing, and to enhance wound healing.

Antioxidants and vitamins may also be added to the composition toprovide additional benefits to the skin or hair. Furthermore, thecomposition may also comprise solvents, emulsifiers, surfactants,structuring agents, thickeners or gelling agents, skin conditioningagents, fillers, fibers, sunscreen agents, preservatives, perfumes(e.g., fragrant essential oils and/or aroma compounds), chelators,antioxidants, neutralizing or pH-adjusting agents, cosmetically activeagents, dermatologically active agents, flavonoids, colorants, aestheticagents, foam enhancers, botanical extracts, anti-inflammatory agents,and mixtures thereof.

Also disclosed herein are methods for reducing plastic contaminationand/or pollution comprising making an exfoliating composition for acosmetic or personal care product, wherein at least a portion of theplastic microbeads in the cosmetic or personal care product are replacedwith oolitic aragonite. Plastic pollution is one of the greatest threatsto ocean health worldwide, with between 4 and 12 million metric tons ofplastic enter the ocean each year-enough to cover every foot ofcoastline on the planet. In the ocean, plastic pollution impacts seaturtles, whales, seabirds, fish, coral reefs, and countless other marinespecies and habitats. It is estimated that more than half of the world'ssea turtles and nearly every seabird on Earth have eaten plastic intheir lifetimes. The present disclosures solve this problem by replacingmicrobeads with oolitic aragonite in face scrubs, toothpastes,cosmetics, and bodywashes.

Oolitic aragonite in cosmetics for the skin, lips, eyebrows andeyelashes can achieve a homogeneous deposit of the cosmetic on theseskin and hair surfaces, while at the same time providing softness.Make-up or cosmetic products, such as foundations, lipsticks, mascara,etc., generally contain (a) an aqueous base and/or a fatty phase such aswaxes and oils, (b) pigments to bring color to the cosmetic, (c) fillersand (d) optional additives such as cosmetic or dermatological activeagents. The fillers generally serve to modify the texture of thecomposition and in particular to rigidify it as well as to give a matteeffect to the film of composition deposited on the skin and/or the lips,which is particularly desired for users with combination or greasy skin,as well as for users in hot and humid climates.

Cosmetic fillers frequently comprise microbeads. As explained herein,oolitic aragonite may be used to replace some, if not all, of themicrobeads in cosmetics, without any negative consequences to thetexture, look, or feel of the cosmetic. Thus, in one embodiment, atleast 30% (w/w), for example at least 40%, at least 50%, at least 60%,at least 70%, at least 80%, at least 90%, at least 95%, at least 96%, atleast 97%, at least 98%, at least 99%, or even 100% (w/w) of the plasticmicrobeads in cosmetics may be replaced with oolitic aragoniteparticles. Oolitic aragonite is preferably present in the cosmeticcomposition in a content of from about 0.1% (w/w) to 70% (w/w), morepreferably about 4% to 70%, and most preferably from about 4% to 50%.Because the plastic microbeads are replaced with oolitic aragonite,there is correspondingly less plastic in the compositions describedherein. Therefore, in certain embodiments plastic microbeads comprise nomore than 50% (w/w) of the compositions disclosed herein, for example nomore than about 45%, no more than about 40%, no more than about 35%, nomore than about 30%, no more than about 25%, no more than about 20%, nomore than about 15%, no more than about 10%, no more than about 5%, nomore than about 4%, no more than about 3%, no more than about 2%, nomore than about 1%, no more than about 0.5%, no more than about 0.1%, orno more than about 0.01% (w/w) of plastic.

When used in cosmetic products, the oolitic aragonite particles have adiameter ranging from about 1 nm to 500 μm, more preferably from 1 μm to200 μm, and most preferably from about 10 μm to 100 μm. Alternatively,at least 30%, at least 50%, at least 70%, at least 90% of the ooliticaragonite particles have an average diameter between about 1 nm to 500μm, or more preferably from 1 μm to 200 μm, and most preferably fromabout 10 μm to 100 μm. These particles can be spherical, plateletshaped, oval shaped, flat, or amorphous. Spherical shapes are preferred.

Oolitic aragonite disclosed herein may also be used as nacres, oriridescent particles, to modify cosmetic texture, as well as matte/glosseffect. When 1 nm to 100 μm oolitic aragonite particles are used asiridescent particles, the particles may be coated. For example, ooliticaragonite coated with titanium or with bismuth oxychloride achieves awhite pearlescence, while oolitic aragonite coated with iron oxides,ferric blue, chromium oxide, bismuth oxychloride, or combinationsthereof can achieve a colored pearlescence. Besides the ooliticaragonite, iridescent cosmetic compositions may also comprise an aqueousphase, a fatty phase (e.g., waxes/oils), a pigment to bring color to thecosmetic, a filler, and optionally an additive such as a cosmeticallyactive agent or a dermatologically active agent, as describedpreviously. In addition, it should further be appreciated that the sizeof (milled) aragonite will also have a substantial effect on brightnessof the material. For example, when milled to a fine particle size of 2to 8 micron, the Hunter brightness level is approximately 94, which isvery bright white. Thus, by selecting a suitable particle size,brightness of the milled aragonite can be adjusted.

Oolitic aragonite compositions as described herein may also be used intoothpaste, along with other dental agents and fillers, where theoolitic aragonite serves as an abrasive. Advantageously, aragonite'scalcium carbonate may also be helpful for remineralization. Toothpastesas described herein may optionally incorporate fluoride as ananti-cavity agent. Oolitic aragonite preferably comprises about 0.1% to40% (w/w), more preferably about 0.4% to 35%, and most preferably fromabout 4% to 15%. Oolitic aragonite may have any suitable shape dictatedby manufacturing, as well as other considerations. For example, whilenaturally occurring in the shape of crystalline needles, ooliticaragonite may be manufactured into various other geometries. Thecross-wise length of the oolitic aragonite should be sufficient-whenmeasured at its widest point—to provide an abrasive quality, such asfrom 1 μm to 10 mm, or more preferably from 10 μm to 5 mm, and mostpreferably from 100 μm to 3 mm across. Besides oolitic aragonite, thetoothpaste may also comprise other dental agents, such as for reducingcavities, reducing bacterial infection, preventing plaque build-up,reducing hypersensitivity, reducing gum inflammation, providingfluoride, reducing oral malodor, etc. The toothpaste is alsocontemplated to comprise a carrier, such as sorbitol.

Additional embodiments of the contemplated subject matter include makinga synthetic pearl composition. Natural pearls and cultured pearls aremade of aragonite or a mixture of aragonite and calcite in minutecrystalline form. The natural or cultured pearl is formed fromdeposition of layers of aragonite. As used herein, “synthetic” refers toa pearl composition that is manufactured. The presently disclosedsynthetic pearl composition is not necessarily molecularly differentfrom a natural or cultured pearl. The layering of aragonite occurs mostcommonly in an oyster to form natural and cultured pearls, whereas asynthetic pearl composition is made by machine-compressed aragonite.

For the manufacturing of a synthetic pearl composition, the contemplatedmethod includes providing aragonite microbeads having an averageparticle size of between 100 nm to 1 mm, as disclosed herein to a devicecapable of withstanding and/or applying pressure. In typicalembodiments, the aragonite microbeads have an average particle size ofbetween 1 nm to 200 μm. The applied pressure to form a synthetic pearlcomposition made of compressed layered aragonite may be from about 4,000up to about 10,000 pounds per square inch (psi). Typically, the appliedpressure is of between about 5,000 to 7,000 psi.

The synthesized pearl composition may be formed in any shape. Forexample, the aragonite microbeads may be provided into a mold of anyshape prior to the application of pressure. For example, synthetic pearlcompositions may take the form of sheets or spheres. The application ofpressure may be from one or multiple directions. The direction of thepressure may be determined by the desired shape of the synthetic pearlcomposition. In contemplated examples, the applied pressure to thearagonite particles may be from one direction, two opposing directions,or from more than 2 directions. The pressure may be a balanced pressurein which each applied pressure or force applied to the aragoniteparticle composition is balanced by an opposing pressure or force fromthe opposite direction with respect to the aragonite microbeads. Theresulting pearl composition may vary depending on the amount and/ordirection of pressure applied to the aragonite particles.

A pressure device for compressing the aragonite microbeads to producethe synthetic pearl composition may be of one of many suitable machines.For example, the pressure device may be a roller device similar to apasta roller or polymer clay roller in which the aragonite microbeadsare provided between two opposing rollers configured to apply pressureto the material therebetween to thereby produce a pressed sheetcomposition. In typical embodiments, the roller device is capable ofapplying a pressure of between 5,000 to 7,000 psi. Whereas a rollerdevice produces a sheet composition between the rollers, other suitablepressure devices may include a mold for holding the aragonite microbeadswherein the mold is capable of withstanding the applied pressure to forma synthetic pearl composition in the shape of the mold.

It should be apparent to those skilled in the art that many moremodifications besides those already described are possible withoutdeparting from the concepts described herein. The inventive subjectmatter, therefore, is not to be restricted except in the scope of theappended claims. Moreover, in interpreting both the specification andthe claims, all terms should be interpreted in the broadest possiblemanner consistent with the context. In particular, the terms “comprises”and “comprising” should be interpreted as referring to elements,components, or steps in a non-exclusive manner, indicating that thereferenced elements, components, or steps may be present, or utilized,or combined with other elements, components, or steps that are notexpressly referenced. As used in the description herein and throughoutthe claims that follow, the meaning of “a,” “an,” and “the” includesplural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Also, asused in the description herein, the meaning of “in” includes “in” and“on” unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Where thespecification claims refers to at least one of something selected fromthe group consisting of A, B, C . . . and N, the text should beinterpreted as requiring only one element from the group, not A plus N,or B plus N, etc.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method for producing ground aragoniteparticles, comprising: drying aragonite particles having an average sizeof 750 um to 1 mm; milling the dried aragonite particles in a ball mill,wherein the ball mill comprises metal grinding media, a grinding aid,and a grate discharge; and separating the ground aragonite particles inan air classifier that separates the ground aragonite particles having aselected particle size distribution, wherein the temperature of thearagonite particles is maintained below 200° C.
 2. The method of claim1, wherein the ground aragonite particles are 2.0 to 3.5 microns size.3. The method of claim 2, wherein 0.005% of the ground aragoniteparticles are retained on a 325 mesh.
 4. The method of claim 1, furthercomprising surface treating the ground aragonite particles having theselected particle size distribution.
 5. A composition of groundaragonite particles having an average particle size of between 100 nm to1 mm.
 6. The composition of claim 5, wherein the ground aragoniteparticles have a particle size distribution (PSD) of between 2.0 to 3.5microns.
 7. The composition of claim 5, wherein the ground aragoniteparticles are loaded with a molecule.
 8. The composition of claim 5,wherein the ground aragonite particle is surface treated.
 9. Thecomposition of claim 5, wherein the molecule is a chemotherapeutic. 10.The composition of claim 5, wherein the molecule is a protein and theground aragonite particles are functionalized to bind the protein. 11.The composition of claim 5, wherein the ground aragonite particles areformulated as chromatography media.
 12. The composition of claim 5,wherein the ground aragonite particles are formulated as a synthesizedpearl composition.
 13. A composition, comprising an aqueous hydrogelcarrier and a plurality of oolitic aragonite beads each having adiameter between 100 nm to 1 mm.
 14. The composition of claim 13,wherein the hydrogel is an alginate hydrogel.
 15. The composition ofclaim 14, wherein the alginate hydrogel and the oolitic aragonite beadsform a dispersion solution.
 16. The composition of claim 13, wherein thecomposition is formulated as an exfoliating scrub, a bath lotion, a soapbar, a shampoo, a conditioner, a toothpaste, or a lotion.
 17. Thecomposition of claim 13, wherein the composition is formulated as afoundation, a lipstick, a mascara, a face serum, an eyeshadow, ahighlighter, or a contour cosmetics.
 18. The composition of claim 13,wherein at least one of the oolitic aragonite beads is coupled to aprotein and/or amino acid(s).
 19. The composition of claim 13, whereinthe average diameter of the plurality of oolitic aragonite beads isbetween 500 nm and 500 μm.
 20. The composition of claim 13, wherein theoolitic aragonite beads are coated with titanium dioxide and/or mica.